Want some early style Amon Amarth? Would you like an extra dosage of Swedish melodic black/death metal with your order? Well gather ye round, and take a listen to the second full-length from Sweden's own King of Asgard.

As I said there is a definite early Amon Amarth vibe on show here on ...to North, that comparison is inescapable. However the inclusion of Swedish-style melodic black/death metal really helps set King of Asgard apart, and helps in giving the band their identity. There are a lot of really sweet tremolo riffs throughout which whilst ring true to some of the riffs displayed upon Once Sent From The Golden Hall they are maybe as equally cut from a cloth similar to the likes of Dawn or Unanimated. The vocals are what give the main AA comparison as far as I'm concerned, and I'll try to keep it there in regards to referencing said act.

What I like about King of Asgard – and this is something common of most of the bands I enjoy flying under the Viking metal banner – is that they convey their themes through their music and lyrics alone, rarely relying too much on fancy folk instruments; telling their story through badass riffs. Tracks such as the fiery "Dispossessed" or the storming riffage of "Bound to Reunite" show the band at the height of their game.

Overall whilst King of Asgard are hardly rewriting the book on Viking metal, they play with conviction and their songs are largely good, if not great. Considering the band consists of members from acts such as Mithotyn, Dawn, and Falconer you can rest easy knowing you're in good hands. The performances are excellent across the board, Andy LaRocque's production is vibrant and energetic, and topping it all off is some really cool, moody artwork. Fans of Amon Amarth, Mithotyn, and even later Unleashed should find a lot to love on ...to North.